'Sorry for the delay in writing, folks. Our very weak Internet connection pretty much died - along with my energy...
Overall Reflections
This assembly - my first as a voting member - was both exhilarating and exhausting: physically, emotionally and spiritually. As I said to a couple of folks along the way, I didn't realize I should have gone into training for this event - but it would have helped with:
- Backaches (and other aches) from sitting too much
- Blisters from walking in the wrong shoes
- Indigestion from eating too much conference food
- Lack of sleep due to a packed schedule
- The burning desire to connect with as many people as possible...some expected, others surprising.
- Intense conversations, what GoodSoil called, "Gracious Engagement"
- Travel challenges - including a suitcase that didn't arrive in Ypsi until 11PM Monday (I arrived in Detroit at 8PM Sunday)
I feel deeply for our bishops, both Mark and Steve, and the churchwide and synod staff who will be on the receiving end of some angry responses to the decisions made in Minneapolis. They are in need of our special prayers during the coming days, weeks and months.
We will be celebrating the full inclusion of GLBT folks into all of the ministries of this church on Sunday, August 30th at 10AM. Please join us as we give thanks to God for the realization of 1 Corinthians 15:58:
Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labour is not in vain.
I encourge you to read Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson's eloquent and pastoral response to last week's decisions. (And not just because your new synodical bishop and pastor appear once again on the web page!!)
Grace and Peace to All,
PS
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